What SHOULD we focus on?

Now, you can probably see where this is going, but yes, this is about Philippians 4:8.

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” – Philippians 4:8

I absolutely love this verse. What a great filter! Many people in their lifetime ask, “Well, how do I know what is wrong to watch, what I shouldn’t listen to, what I shouldn’t do…?” Let’s look at a few examples, shall we? And oh by the way, it has to pass each category…

Modern Warfare 3
I know, I know. It sounds silly but let’s try it!

True, honest, just: Eh. Maybe?

Pure, lovely, of good report: I can definitely tell you that, no, it doesn’t pass these.

So does it pass? Nope. Missed half of them. Ouch.

Soccer (Just because I can)

True, honest, just: Depends on how and why you are playing it.

Pure, lovely, of good report: Again, it depends. But, if you do it for the right reason (using your God-given talents), then yes!

Pass? Yes! Or as I like to say: Yush.

Last one: School (I’m wondering, too)

True, honest, just: This depends on the schooling you receive. Make sure you are getting taught what the Bible teaches, then, it passes in these categories.

Pure, lovely, of good report: God wants us to grow up and mature. With good schooling (and with paying attention), we can. You just have to be diligent!

So, in the end, we got this:Modern Warfare 3SoccerSchool

You can use this filter for whatever you can think of. If something you are doing breaks just one of these, try to work around it. If you find that that’s impossible, stop doing it!

Challenge for now: filter something in the comments, and try to filter other people’s ideas as well. I’ll give you one to start: money.